On Saturday, May 10, Rye embarks on the Sussex County Cricket league season, with the 1st XI hosting newly promoted Little Common Ramblers with a 12:30pm start in a match sponsored by My Sweet Old Etcetera. Whilst the 2nd XI travel to play Glynde 2nds starting at 1pm. The 3rd XI league season does not begin until May 24.
The last pre-season friendlies were a little disappointing as the 1st XI were dismissed for 78 as Tenterden’s overseas player Lochner took 3-4 and his opening partner 2-6 on a wicket not usually found at Tenterden. Rye rallied to 78 thanks to Craig Pierce with 21 not out. Tenterden eased past the target with only two wickets down. For this Saturday the 1st XI with be strengthened with the return of Jackson Woodcock and the signing of Shahrukh Khan to bolster the bowling line up. In the following week there will be more players becoming available for selection.
The 2nd XI posted a good total against opponents Robertsbridge 1sts, as Spencer Fielding 101 and Paul Hitchcott took Rye to 202-9 off 40 overs. In reply Robertsbridge scored 203-5 off 38 overs. A solid performance from the 2nds against a team from a higher league and with new faces returning for selection this week.
On Monday, May 5, the U11A team defeated Mersham U11B by 75 runs. In the pairs format, everybody was involved, and Rye secured their win by playing straight when batting and likewise when bowling. An excellent performance in conditions that resembled an arctic winter. The U16s had a win on Tuesday, May 6 as opponents Ashford B conceded.
These games are only possible thanks to the tremendous support we have received from local businesses: Diamond Koz for sponsoring the pavilion; Bournes Moves for sponsoring our cricket week and ground work; Skinners of Rye as shirt sponsor; Rush, Witt Wilson sponsors of the junior section; My Sweet Old Etcetera sponsors of 1st XI home games; The Mermaid Inn sponsors of 2nd XI home fixtures; the George Inn sponsors of our stumps; and so many others: Marinos, Khanz, Sussex Plumbing Supplies, Parker Building Supplies, Chandlers Roofing Supplies, the Ship Inn, Peter Farrow Jewellery, Rye Osteopathic Practice, Rye Bay Fitness, Hayden’s, Armour Flooring, the Jempson Foundation, the Rye Retreat, Phillips and Stubbs, Fast Print and the Mahdi Lounge.
Next week the games continue, on Monday, May 12, the U11A host Egerton, the U11B travel to Great Chart. Tuesday, May 13, the U16s host Tenterden, and Thursday, May 15, the U13s host Great Chart.
On Sunday, May 11 the softball programme starts at 10am at the Salts for 5-11 year olds. Even if you haven’t signed up, turn up and get your child involved. For more details contact Martin Blincow blincsfamily@aol.com 07535 482006.
Image Credits: Martin Blincow .